TO:  The Trinity Community

The following is an important message from Maureen Baxter, director of Trinity’s Health and Wellness Center.  Please take the time to read her message below and the key facts on the CDC web site:  http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/norovirus-keyfacts.htm

Ann Pauley

Good Afternoon,

As most of you are probably aware, GW University has identified an outbreak of norovirus on campus. 

Norovirus is the most common cause of gastrointestinal infections.  It lasts 1-3 days and is highly contagious. It is spread by contact with an ill person, with surfaces they have touched and sharing food or beverage.  People usually have nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.  There is no cure; treatment includes keeping well hydrated and avoiding work and school until you are well.  Unless you have other serious health concerns, people generally recover fully in a few days.

If you are a student, staff or faculty member and believe you have a stomach virus, please email your professor or supervisor and stay home until you feel well.  If you think you are ill and want some advice from the Health Center staff, please call at 202 884 9615.  We do not recommend that you see a health care facility unless you already have a serious medical condition or become dehydrated. Please read the CDC information sheet at:  http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/norovirus-keyfacts.htm

Trinity will continue to ensure that all surfaces in open areas like the Post Office, the Deli, and the Dining Hall are cleaned frequently.  As you know, we already have many hand sanitizers throughout the campus. Please use them! We encourage all these actions regularly in the residences and the Trinity Center. Please wash your hands often, please stay home if you are ill. Avoid, as much as possible, being with those who are ill.

If you live on campus, let your residence staff know if you become ill.

To date, we have had no unusual illness activity on campus.  Please call us if you need information or support.  The CDC fact sheet should answer most of your questions and concerns:   http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/norovirus-keyfacts.htm

Thank you for working to keep the campus healthy.

Maureen Baxter RNC MS

Director

Health and Wellness Center